Goodbye to a friend

Seeing as this was supposed to be a joyful holiday week, I’m sad to announce the passing of a very good person, John M. Higgins.

I had the great opportunity to know this kind soul very briefly in person when I met him the first time a few months ago, after “knowing” him for many years anonymously through a Hoboken message forum. We became friends when Hoboken411 started, and he was eager and helpful to help this site with insightful information and tips. A true and bonafide gentleman who always did what he thought was best.

There is not much more I can say, rather than I’m deeply saddend by this loss. A shock to all that have known him.

I’m very thankful to have had the chance to spend time with such a sincere and giving person as himself. May you rest in peace, John.

Higgins is survived by his wife, Deborah Marrone, an attorney with the Federal Trade Commission.

A funeral mass for John M. Higgins will be held for family and close friends at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 404 Hudson St., Hoboken, New Jersey, on Saturday, Nov.25, at 12:00 p.m. There will not be a wake.

A memorial service in John’s honor will be held in the coming weeks in New York City — details to be announced.

Donations should be sent to Hoboken Homeless Shelter, 300 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken, NJ, 07030, or to St. Peter and Paul church.